Restaurants and Hotels located in buildings listed Historical Monuments

Restaurants and Hotels located in buildings listed Historical Monuments06Nicefr

NORTH EASTDining atop a concrete tower, in a former food store or in a medieval inn on the way to Santiago de Compostella or still living it up like a king for just the span of a week-end – this is our invitation to you. Of course, the decision remains yours.

In Amiens, eat trendyIn Amiens, it is in the very trendy district of Saint-Leu where Restaurant les Marrisons will welcome you in the most unexpected of all places, a former 15th century boat yard.Nestling in the middle of a garden full of flowers, the intensely blue and yellow dining room is a model of warmth and hushed atmosphere. It is one of the oldest establishments in old Saint-Leu. In season, two permanent terraces give customers a chance to enjoy the good weather. In summer, lunch is served with your feet in the water so to speak or under olive trees away from the crowd. The Chef works with local produce: pré-salé lamb from the bay of the Somme, eel from the upper valley of the river, crayfish from the Hallue, also duck pâté and scallops.Les Marrisons, Pont de la Dodane, 80000 – Amienswww.les-marrisons.fr

Dijon, explore a treasure chest of beautiesIn the heart of the old city of Dijon , right at the foot of the cathedral and near the Owl street, lies a super table hiding in a unique 15th century setting. It is quite typical of medieval timber framed houses opening on to the street. La Maison Millière is everything under one roof: bar, café, souvenir shop and restaurant…The film Cyrano de Bergerac was partly shot on location here. The terrace, just like the inner garden and the upper floor are literally taken over by aficionados. Must eat: gourmet plates and pastries; must drink: a wide choice of hot drinks and very good special teas like Thé aux moines.Maison Millière, 10 rue de la Chouette, 21000 – Dijon

Located on the Route des Grands Crûs de Bourgogne, between Dijon and Beaune, the Château de Gilly is a former Cistercian residence from the 15th and 16th century converted into a Château Hôtel de Charme. Jean-Claude Boutin and his team welcome you in this sublime castle featuring 37 bedrooms and 11 apartments, 2 restaurants: the gastronomic “Clos Prieur” in a superb 15th century gothic room and the convivial “Côté terroirs” in the former vaulted cellar. You’ll be able to unwind in a superb French garden and enjoy every possible modern amenity such as heated swimming pool, billiard, tennis and even croquet in the former moat. In 1998, Château de Gilly became a member of the Grandes Etapes hotel association and a major stop over on the Dukes of Burgundy road.Château de Gilly, Gilly-les-Citeaux, 21640 – Vougeot. Gilly@grandesetapes.fr

Lille, on the road to CompostellaIn Lille, gastronomy has a perfect hide away: the Compostelle. This former relay from Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle which dates back to the 16th century has become a gourmet paradise. Pause for a while and listen carefully before sampling the treasures of a most inventive brand of cuisine: brochettes of gambas, snails with smoked garlic cream, sea bream fillet in herb and onion chutney or the delightful cushion of veal with Maroilles...Le Compostelle, 4 rue Saint-Etienne, 59800 – Lille. Open 7 days/week.http://lecompostelle.fr

Metz, gourmet suppliesIn Metz, it is the Citadelle’s former food store dating back to 1559 that puts forth a first class gastromic menu. With its Michelin starred status, le Magasin aux Vivres is henceforth quite unavoidable, as much fot its historical charm as for its head spinning menu :declensions of Burgundy snails, gourmet cassolettes, clever mix of flavours from the terroirs and exotic islands.Christophe Dufossé, the Chef in charge, gives his know-how a free rein according to seasons and creates a cuisine as elegant as it is refined.Le Magasins aux Vivres, 5 avenue Ney, 57000 – Metz. www.citadelle-metz.com

Mulhouse, from atop the towerIn Mulhouse, bang in the city centre, the Tour de l’Europe cannot be missed. This concrete sky scraper has even become the city’s modern symbol with its triangular shape as if to hint at its geographical location at the crossroads with 3 countries... Go up to the 31st floor where you will discover the revolving panoramic restaurant, some 95 m above ground level. The feeling is that of being a passenger in some sort of a flying saucer, enjoying a truly exceptional view over the old city of Mulhouse, the Vosges mountain range, the plain of Alsace, the Black-Forest, the Jura mountains and beyond, on a clear day, the Alps. What a thrill! A great classic for the city with room for a massive 180 guests and a unique point of view.La Tour de l’Europe, 3 boulevard de l’Europe, 68100 – MulhouseRestaurant@tour-europe.comClick on this link and discover a host of good places where to eat www.ville-mulhouse.fr

It is up to you to choose the conditions under which you’ll visit the towns and cities of north-eastern France, using the addresses that have been selected for your on the basis of their quality and excellence. Should you require further information consult one of many guide books available at home or simply start surfing the web using the addresses privided. But one thing is sure; the exercise will make your mouth water!

SOUTHSouthern France, a bouquet of favours. In every corner of this land, tourism professionals will do their utmost to bring to you a cuisine that is rich and full of contrasts. Every meal is an homage rendered to the sea and the sun… Get going now, you are being expected!

Aix-en-Provence, some well kept secretsWhen in Aix, take time to sip tea on one of the town’s most beautiful square. Such is the invitation extended by Christine Lastmann as she opened an intimate place dedicated to the art of making tea and syrup and which turns out to be all in one a restaurant, tea room, library and art gallery. In her tea room, one can sample all sorts of very surprising teas as well as thyme or mimosa based syrups, with current buns or pain perdu. For lunch time, the offer puts the accent on gourmet dishes from the season. On the first floor, you should stroll about through the library stocked with art books, travel books and, of course, cook books. You can also take a look at the cellar to discover everymonth a new artist exhibiting his paintings.Thé et dépendance, Place des trois ormeaux, 13100 – Aix-en-Provence

Within the city, hiding behind a massive iron gate, you’ll discover a wonderful provencale “bastide”, opening on to a splendid garden with sculpted trees and bushes: this is the Hotel Pigonnet for you. Numerous rooms half-way between period and contemporary styles look on to the garden with a view over Montagne Sainte-Victoire or the swimming pool. Cézanne used to come here often to paint. In turn, you’ll love taking the time to live in this garden featuring many masks and statues.Hôtel le Pigonnet, 5 avenue du Pigonnet, 13090 – Aix-en-Provencereservation@hotelpigonnet.com

Avignon, home for renaissance charm and ultra contemporaneous styleIn Avignon, your choice will be between the Hôtel Restaurant la Mirande and the Hôtel Cloître Saint-Louis. At la Mirande, the plus is the main dining room located in the ancient Cardinalice tower, with its renaissance double caisson ceiling. A truly magnificent monument erected 700 years ago which boasts today a four-star rating. You will forsake any notion of time in these wonderful bedrooms decorated with Indian hangings or cloth from Jouy. The discreet and yet penetrating luxury of great southern homes At the Cloître Saint-Louis, you’ll be pulled between history and modernity. The 80 rooms are distributed between the 16th century building and the contemporary wing inspired by Jean Nouvel. You should also take advantage of a panoramic terrace affording an incredible view over the city’s monuments and roof line, also from a small green and intimate garden, and from the vaulted dining rooms in the ambulatory… In other words, the Cloître Saint-Louis is in itself a definition of “modern romanticism”.

With the link www.avignon.fr, the city will guide you to the restaurant, inn or café of your choice.

Lyon, a touch of Italian charmIn 1600, king Henry IV gets married to Marie de Medicis in the Saint-Jean Abbey in Lyon, thus linking the destinies of two cities, Florence and Lyon into the great cultural light of the Renaissance and of the Italian Quatrocente. It is in those fabulous days rich in cultural and political exchanges that the Villa Florentine came to be. Located on the Fourvière Hill, not far from the cathedral, this gorgeous home inspired by the Renaissace has been converted into a no less gorgeous hotel. 28 bedrooms including 9 suites and a huge terrace with swimming pool overlooking the whole city. A gastronomicrestaurant called “Les Terrasses de Lyon” under the magic wand of Davy Tissot is fully booked every night, leaving all connoisseurs absolutely thrilled.Villa Florentine, 25 Montée Saint-Bartélémy, 69005 – Lyonwww.villaflorentine.com

If you want to know more about those famous temples of Lyonnaise cuisine, click and enjoy: www.lyon.fr

Marseille, the fine catch of fishNestling at the very bottom of the Vallon des Auffes’ diminutive harbour, the Epuisetteaffords a panorama to take one’s breath away, overlooking the sea with the Château d’If on the horizon. Rock, red mullet, fishing nets, diner with a sea view, surrounded by multicoloured Venetian vases. A gastronomic cuisine dedicated to Provence and the Mediterranean, which proudly displays 1 star Michelin, while being described as a “very good table” in the Gault – Millaud. Quality and freshness are the priorities of Chef Guillaume Sourieu. Specialties: aioli of cod, bouillabaisse, bourride, capucino of shell fish, red sea mullet with candied egg plant, cannelloni of langoustine with pistou. Sit down now, for heaven sake! L’Epuisette, Anse du Vallon des Auffes, 13007 – Marseille. Quartier la Corniche.contact@l-epuisette;com - www.l-epuisette.com

Montpellier, eating at the opera and a feast for your sensesThe Welcomedia is ideally located, at the very heart of Place de la Comédie and most of all, within the precinct of the opera house which dates back to the 19th century. Bistrot atmosphere, contemporaneous decoration, the Welcomedia is a friendly place to drink a glass or two with friends or to dine for that matter, notably on the huge terrace weather allowing.Welcomedia, Opéra Comédie, Place de la Comédie, 34000- Montpellier www.welcomedia.fr

In the year 1988, the twin brothers Jacques and Laurent Pourcel fall under the spell of a little end of the century house, quite abandoned although only a few minutes from Montpellier’s city centre. This is where they open the “Garden of Senses” restaurant. After different stages of restoration of the building, they refine the decoration with their nseparable friend and brilliant sommelier Olivier Château. A modern atmosphere around a Mediterranean garden spiralling around the restaurant and its glass walls, and also a sense of refinement and culinary experimentation which reaches its apogee when a 3rd Michelin star is won. A Languedoc, maritime and earthly cuisine which comes with never ending surprises.

Nimes, imperator lives up to its nameNot far from the magnificent Jardins de la Fontaine, the Imperator Hôtel is one of the most luxurious in the city of Nîmes, a home away from home for international customers and well-to-do aficionados. Bedrooms are equipped to the highest standard of luxury and look on to either the Canal de la Fontaine or the hotel’s magnificent roman patio. Ernest Hemingway once fell to the charm of the place and the hotel bar bears today the great American author’s name. The hotel also features a gastronomic restaurant, the Enclos de la Fontaine, directed by Chef Pascal Chalamet. At Feria time, the patio is open to the public as an open air bodega, not to be missed on any account.Hotel Imperator Concorde ****, Quai de la Fontaine, 30900 - Nimeshotel.imperator@wanadoo.fr - www.hotel-imperator.com

Saint-Etienne, the Logis de NantasSome 6 km away from downtown Saint-Etienne, on the historical site of the Château de Nantas, the Logis de Nantas is a rather charming abode featuring elegant and refined bedrooms. Destroyed in 1894, only a tower, the adjacent farm house and the orangerie are left standing today. There is also a magnificent period French garden with an impressive panorama. Every room offers unique decoration and atmosphere oozing luxury and comfort and inspired by the four elements: earth, air, wood and fire. An exercise space is also available. Discreet and personalised welcome in order to respect guests’ privacy. Leisure activities include visits to the Modern Art museum, the Mine museum, the Saint-Etienne Art and Industry museum, climbing around Mont Pilat, hiking through the Forez mountains or enjoying a day at the Amazone leisure park.Les Chambres d’Hôtes du Logis de Nantas, 2 route du Crêt Beauplomb, 42650 – Saint-Jean Bonnefonds. logisdenantas@free.fr . www.logisdenantas.com

Nice, the crown jewelBuilt in 1912 on the famous Baie des Anges and now listed as a historical monument, the hotel Negresco remains one of the few private palaces left in the world. Jeanne Augier has transformed it into a real living museum. Her master idea is to help her guests in the discovery of the various epochs in French history and to make them share her passion for art, from the Renaissance to the third millennium. In the very heart of all this architectural splendour: Le Chantecler, the best table in the whole of Nice, Michelin starred and an enchantment for both eyes and palate.In a regency period dining room with sumptuous 18th century wood panelling, Chef Bruno Turbot presents his carte and fixed menus. Still within the house, the Rotonde, Bruno Turbot’s bistrot, set in a unique décor of Pompadour carousel, pink seats, yellow table cloths and wooden merry go round horses with a duster on their heads and musician automatons. Every day, from 7 am to 10.30 pm, a carte with Niçoise specialties and a menu “Coup de Coeur” will be proposed to you in a jovial and convivial atmosphere.Le Chantecler- La Rotonde, 37 Promenade des Anglais, 06000 – Nicereservation@hotel-negresco.com

SOUTH WESTSouth western France has exceptional tables galore. Whether traditional or inventive, all gastronomies are on offer.

Angers, living it up château styleOn the implantation of a former Gallo-roman site and around the palace of the first counts of Anjou, the Angers fortress proudly dominates the city with its 17 towers built around 1230 by Saint-Louis. In the 14th and 15th centuries, the dukes of Anjou settle there their princely court. Diners and receptions held in these magical surroundings are reminiscent of medieval feasts and banquets. No better way to break away from routine and to learn more about the history and gastronomy of this great city.2, Promenade du Bout du Monde, 49100 – AngersA very large estate in the heart of the Loire Valley, only 15 minutes from the city, this wonderful architectural group of building features a 15th century manor house and a 18th century castle, the Château de Noirieux. They stand in the middle of a 9 hectare park overlooking the Loir River. Just a country castle without any hint of pomp, the 4 star hotels boasts 19 spacious and refined bedrooms displaying a medley of styles: Louis XIIIth, Regency, Louis XVth, Louis XVIth, Directoire, Art Déco. Also at guests disposal all the modern amenities to be expected in such an establishment: swimming pool, jacuzzi, tennis court. Can you think of a better destination for a romantic break?Château de Noirieux, 26 Route du Moulin, 49125 – Briollay; E-mail:noirieux@relaischateaux.com

Local restaurant professionals in the Angers region know best how to present and prepare the very best dishes from the terroir. Just get in touch with them by clicking www.angers-tourisme.com

Bordeaux, a real institution called PhilippeYou will find restaurant Philippe at Dubern’s, along the Allées de Tourny, in the very chic Triangle district. The table has the reputation of being the best in town, in a refined décor. In summer, it would be a good idea to book a table on the well-shaded terrace. For many years, the “posh” Bordeaux has been under the spell of the cuisine elaborated by Philippe Techoire: Grilled wild fish, shell fish, grands crus, all being perfectly prepared and blended. Private rooms, banquets, meeting and events, full catering service. A thorough performance from start to finish.Restaurant Philippe chez Dubern, 42/44 Allées de Tourny, 33000 – Bordeauxwww.philippe-chez-dubern.com

Thanks to its glorious wines and its exquisite gastronomy, the Bordelais is a wonderful region to discover and sample at leisure. You are only a “mouse” away from an unforgettable adventure. Just click www.bordeaux-tourisme.com

At the very foot of the Pont-Neuf bridge which spans the river Garonne, in a small street loaded with history, (rue de la Descente de la Halle aux Poissons i.e. formerly a street lined up with shops selling fresh produce – mostly fish brought by boat on the Garonne) you will discover restaurant « le 19 », just in front of Hôtel Garonne. It is housed in an early 16th century brick building so typical of Toulouse. Kitchen chef, Jean Oliva will elaborate for you a young and creative cuisine with the very best produce local markets can offer.If you need or simply would like to overnight in Toulouse, can we suggest Le Grand Hôtel de l’Opéra1, place du Capitole, 31000 – ToulouseTel: +33 (0) 5 61 21 82 66 – Fax: + 33 (0) 5 61 23 41 04/contact@grand-hotel-opera.com - www.grand-hotel-opera.com

A fine hotel located alongside famous Place du Capitole, bang in the heart of the city.Once a 17th century convent, the Grand Hôtel de l’Opéra is oozing charm and offers a service of tradition together with very modern facilities This hotel will surprise you with its Empire style, quite unique in Toulouse.

WESTWestern France is a happy and harmonious marriage of cream and fish with sea food. And the only way to find out is to head west right now….

Le Havre, a maritime villa and an artist’s villaVilla Maritime was built in 1890 and stands impressive on the sea front with its white and red brickwork. Property owned by famous writer Armand Salacrou from 1939 to 1990, this artist’s house is fully restored in 2000. Chef Jean-Luc Tartarin has developed here a fine tip of the trade restaurant and a much revered workshop dedicated to the senses, which crosses his know-how with his sense for culinary experimentation. A must address to discover without waiting.La Villa du Havre, 66 Boulevard Albert 1er, 76600 – Le Havrewww.villaduhavre.com

Rouen, a legendary crownLegend has now taken over the place. “La Couronne (crown)” is not a restaurant; rather it is THE restaurant you have to know. Famed artist Salvador Dali would stop here before hopping on to a New York bound transatlantic liner, just to savour the house’s great rendering of “Canard à la Rouannaise.” Declared oldest inn in the whole of France since 1345, the Couronne has been an illustrious place much sought after by the likes of kings and queens, state leaders, political figures, artists, writers, sports stars for the time of a lunch or a diner. Under the impulsion of manager Darwin Cauvin and chef Vincent Taillefer, the restaurant has never ceased to be a leader in the field of superlative gastronomy, using produce from the Normandy terroir and the names of which appear to have sprung out of the darkness of times: crackling of sheep’s feet”. But also fried sea bass with parmesan shavings, Saint-Vast oysters. We wish you spend a privileged moment in this handsome Normand décor, between flowers and bone china, the sheen of hardwood and damask hangings…timeless, sipping with delight the thousand and one flasks from an exceptional cellar replete with Château Laffittes and other Pomerols.Restaurant La Couronne, 31 Place du Vieux Marché, 76000 – Rouencontact@lacouronne.fr - www.lacouronne.com

Nantes, European capital of fine livingGateway to the Loire Valley and Brittany, Nantes is not just under the influence…of western winds and 18th century maritime adventures; it also features a wide variety of cafés and restaurants, as well as a sparkling cultural activity. La Cigale, the work of Emile Libaudière inaugurated in 1895 was the real annexe to the nearby theatre. It has been ever since a propitious place for ideological confrontations between middle class town’s people and local notables backed by actors, dancers and singers coming from the theatre. The place is an endless effervescence of Art Nouveau, of ornaments and stained glass. Electricity even plays a magical role in lighting the rooms with glass tulips mounted on wrought iron stems. Today listed as a historical monument, La Cigale is a must stop over in Nantes. You can enjoy its atmosphere from early morning with breakfast or later for lunch or diner or even afternoon tea. La Cigale also offers complete after- diner evenings. In summer, a terrace is set on Place Graslin. Some knowledgeable people go as far as saying La Cigale “may be the most beautiful restaurant in the world…”

ILE DE FRANCEParis and surroundings offer multiple pleasures you can share with family and friends.One though is quite unavoidable even if your foray into Ile de France is quite short: gastronomy. From trendy restaurants to open air cafés, everything is there to stimulate your senses.

Versailles, dining in company of baroque musicIn the royal city of Versailles, you are invited to “l’Harmonium”, a convivial gastronomic restaurant located in the heart of the Saint-Jacques district. Modern, easy going and refined style for this very good address where you will enjoy delicious tempuras with gambas, red sea mullet with three peppers and four spices or still chocolate gourmandises for dessert.L’Harmonium, 64 rue d’Anjou, 78000 – Versailleswww.restaurantharmonium.com

Paris, birthplace of brasseriesArrived in 1865 with horse and cart from their native Savoie, Monsieur et Madame Mollard opened a bistrot in front of Saint-Lazare railway station, then quite outside the Paris business district. Thirty years later, the modern style renovation of this fine establishment very quickly attracted the most “chic” customers in the capital. Decoration was carried out with no holds barred: mosaics were brought from Italy, frescoes ordered from the Ateliers de Sarreguemines on the theme of everyday life around Saint-Lazare station. Also on display unique works recalling Deauville, Saint-Germain-en-Laye, Ville d’Avray and even portraying some libertine activities of the day. The architect Niermans – originally involved with the Negresco in Nice, designed the building himself. He even drew the mosaics and designed the chairs and tables, the lighting system, the coat-hangers and even the cashier’s desk…Today, a new little pink room, both exquisite and intimate and also separate rooms reserved for smokers. What’s more, the food is good…hurry!Brasserie Mollard, 115 rue Saint-Lazare, 75008Paris E-mail: espace.clients@mollard.fr

Here is a place which could be described as a hive since agitation in the premises often borders on extreme. As a main witness of Parisian life in the “crazy years”, the brasserie was built in 1927 by architects Barillet and Lebouc, in what was formerly a wood and coal yard, to transform it into Paris’ largest brasserie. The 33 painted pillars or pilasterswhich line up the huge dining room are still faithfully standing. The perfect place to explore theMontparnasse area and immerse in the crazy atmosphere of the 30’s. One must recognize it is quite a thrill to think the place used to be visited by the likes ofApollinaire, Cendras, Chagal, Man Ray, Soutine, Joséphine Baker, Foujita and also Aragon and Elsa. Cuisine is top notch and service is pleasant. It is quite nice to be served by a team of professionals from the old school. Indian lamb curry, tartar steak, sea food platter and chateaubriant. A delight for the eyes and the taste buds!La Coupole, 102 Boulevard du Montparnasse, 75014 – Pariswww.flobrasseries.com

At the far end of a dark courtyard, well away from the Grands Boulevards, a family brasserie hides away. Yet it is a most astonishing place, a true institution with waiters, rank waiters and head waiters getting around noisily. The interior decoration is quite splendid, with lunch and dinner being served under a huge light coloured glass canopy. As for the plate, it is typical brasserie cuisine, simple but extra fast, dependable and with a high turnover (nearly 500 meals per day, every day…!) The menu is changed on a daily basis (egg mayo, steak and fries, to name but a few). The bill is left on a corner of the table cloth. All the same, it may be wise to anticipate a short wait.Bouillon Chartier, Restaurant Gastronomique, 7 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 75009-Paris.

Of course it is up to you to select those places that will best meet your expectations in terms of comfort and gastronomy. If you should need further information to make up your mind, please consult the many guide books available in most bookshops or simply surf the web…